It Was Close ...

... and then the game started.

As would be expected when Maryland matches up with any NAIA opponent, the Terrapins made it clear the canyon separating their skill level from that of Northwood University is vast. Maryland got out to a 9-0 start and headed to the locker room at halftime with a 53-35 lead.

Landon Milbourne scored 14 points and was the best player on the court in the first half. Cliff Tucker also played well, dishing out a few impressive passes and adding 11 points. Adrian Bowie made all five of his points and tallied 14 points before the intermission.

Coach Gary Williams had his players in full-court press for most of the first half, a tactic that resulted in several Northwood turnovers near their own basket. It will be interesting to see how long Williams keeps pressing Northwood if the lead continues to swell. Keep in mind that Northwood's coach, Rollie Massimino is an old friend of Williams's, dating back to his days at Ohio State.